Bale’s absence leaves a considerable gap in the Spurs side, even though, before today, they were the Premier League’s biggest spenders this summer. But after their 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at Emirates Stadium, Rose claimed Spurs could prosper without the Welshman.

Asked if they could eventually develop into a better side without Bale, Rose said: “I think so. There have been games, though, where Gareth would have unlocked the door a lot earlier, even the ones we’ve won against Crystal Palace and Swansea.

“Even against Arsenal he would have enjoyed being out there, but I don’t think anyone can hold a grudge against him leaving. I wish him all the best and I hope he enjoys the occasion in Madrid.

“It’s brilliant for him. He did have a tough start in his first couple of years here after he joined (in 2007) so it’s amazing to see the way he’s come on.

“He will now be rubbing shoulders with players like Cristiano Ronaldo, so I am thoroughly excited for him. I wish him the very best and I just hope he can get me some tickets for El Clasico (Madrid v Barcelona).”

Spurs have spent more than £100million in this window as they try to compensate for the loss of their most dangerous attacker. Such activity is relatively unusual for Spurs chairman Daniel Levy, and Rose admitted: “I’ve been here six years now and it’s a little bit surreal to see Spurs spend that sort of money.

“But it’s good that the chairman sees we’re not far from breaking into the top four. We just need to push on to that next level and he is allowing the manager to build his squad. We’re looking to push on now after the international break.”